Hampta Pass Trek is a popular crossover trek in the Himalayas that takes you from the green valleys of Kullu-Manali to the barren landscapes of Lahaul-Spiti. It is a moderate trek that covers a distance of about 26 km in 5 days, crossing the Hampta Pass at an altitude of 14,100 ft. The trek offers stunning views of glaciers, rivers, meadows, forests, and lakes, especially the Chandratal Lake, which is a highlight of the trek. You can also experience the contrast between the cultures and lifestyles of the two regions, as you pass through remote villages and monasteries. The best time to do this trek is from June to September, when the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in full bloom. If you are looking for a trek that combines adventure, beauty, and diversity, then Hampta Pass Trek is a great option for you.
The "The Hampta Pass Trek is a stunning Himalayan crossover journey in Himachal Pradesh, known for its dramatic shift from the lush green Kullu Valley to the barren, desert-like landscape of Lahaul/Spiti, offering views of snow-capped peaks like Deo Tibba, and is suitable for beginners to intermediate trekkers, typically lasting 4-6 days, starting from Manali and reaching altitudes of around 14,000 feet (4,298m). Key highlights include forests, meadows, river crossings, glacial views, and the challenging but rewarding pass crossing, with the best season being June to October.
Reporting at Himalayan Frontiers camp site, after briefing drive to the starting point of the trek Jobri Nallah (1h30mnt). Zig-Zag drive high over the Manali give awesome view of the surrounding Himalaya and entire valley. Reach Khangpa village of Saten, who have migrated from Spiti (Tibet in the olden time).
Continue drive by gravel road till the road end and the adventure start from here onward. Follow the flat and easy trail amidst the forest and meadows for one and half hrs. After crossing the forest valley open up where camp site is set at scenic surrounding. Night in camp
Overnight Camping
The trail begins by easy and slightly uphill walking across the pasture land, paved by the grass and stone slabs, you will notice abundance of wild flowers around you including Rhododendron bushes in full bloom (sub. to season). At some places the bank sloping down to the roaring river from the high cliffs. There are challenges of chilled streams to be crossed under the super vision of our expert guide / team leaders which is the part of your adventure holidays. (you are advised to carry sneakers to cross the stream which protect your feet from cold and save hurting by sharp piece of gravel / rock). Continue gradual ascend to the breath-taking alpine site of Balu Gyera at the beneath of Hamta pass.
Overnight Camping
As its long day to cross over pass therefore early start is advised. When its early season you will walk over compact snow (possibility of fresh snow in case of bad weather, hence required to take gaiter) and summer is carpeted by wild flowers fields. Ascends gradually by zig- Zag trail through boulder and stony path till top of mighty Hamta pass. Distant valley of Lahoul/Spiti comes in the view. From the pass one can enjoy the view of magnificent Himalayan peaks like Deo Tibba, Indra Asan and Indra Kila elevating above glacier field. Slowly landscape change from lush green valley of Kullu to the rugged terrain of Lahoul / Spiti.
Now descend for about an hour (by Zig-zag track or snowy slope in early season) to Shea Gahru camp site set not far from the foot of glacier which blows chilled wind and minimise the night temperature. Night in camp.
Overnight Camping
The trail descends following the chilled mountain stream (you may cross it or not depend on the temporary bridge if build over or not). Soon the Chandra river is in view, after 2-3 hours of trek reach the beautiful campsite of Chhatru at the road head between Manali- Spiti. Take your lunch and further drive to Chandra tal offers you a wonderful view of Chandra valley amidst magnificent mountain ranges (C.B. and Barashigari ranges) either side, Fascinating hanging glaciers and sheer rocks formations are awesome. Reached to the crescent shaped dark blue lake side located Infront of magnificent snow caped mountains range. In spite of rugged and inhospitable surrounding terrain it’s a summer niche to the shepherds. After enjoying the time at this imaginary fairy land, drive back to the camp site by same way. Enjoy last night of your holiday with your co-voyagers.
Overnight Camping
Morning drive back to Manali over Rohtang pass (3950m) or via Atal Tunnel, with the company of awesome landscape, cascading waterfalls and sweet memories of your adventure trip, drop at Himalayan Frontiers camp site or at the centre of town to make your onward journey convenient. End of services.
Please be sure that your insurance covers your all expenses in high altitude as of ground or air rescue during your trek in case of accident, altitude sickness, if helicopter required: We request you to provide Himalayan Frontiers the Insurance number, policy number, 24 hours emergency contact of insurance, persons in your family to be contacted if need be.
Morning and Evening Tea
•1st Day Lunch and Dinner to last Day Breakfast
•Start from lunch 1st day to breakfast last day
•Accommodation on twin or thrice sharing basis in tent
•Delhi to Delhi bus ticket
•Transport from source to Destination
•Any Personal Expenses
•Mineral water , soft drinks and hard drinks
Accommodation during the trekking, all meals all guides, porters, cook, camping Equipment. Cost does not include transportation before and after the trek, accommodation, & meals before and after the trek and kind of insurance. The itinerary is sub jest to change. Client has to sign a risk certificate before the beginning of the tour.
You need to carry sweater or jacket , rain coat , torch , 2-3 pairs of socks and some basic medicine etc.
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Hampta Pass is a beautiful and adventurous trek that connects the Kullu valley with the Lahaul and Spiti valley in Himachal Pradesh. It is a moderate difficulty trek that requires good fitness, preparation, and a permit from the forest department. The best time to do this trek is from June to October, when the weather is pleasant and the views are stunning. You will get to see a variety of landscapes, from forests, meadows, streams, waterfalls, glaciers, to barren mountains and lakes. You will also get to visit the famous Chandratal Lake on the last day of the trek, which is a highlight of the trip.
If you are planning to do this trek, you should follow some important tips and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some of them:
Choose a reputed trekking company that provides all the necessary equipment, food, guides, and transportation.
Carry a backpack with your personal belongings, sleeping bag, and a poncho. Keep your backpack light and pack only the essentials.
Wear proper fitted trekking boots to keep your feet warm and avoid frostbite. Avoid wearing thick socks or more than one pair of socks, as they can hamper blood circulation. You can also carry a pair of sandals or slippers for the campsite.
Acclimatize well before the trek and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol, smoking, and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and affect your breathing. You can also carry some medicines for altitude sickness, headache, nausea, and diarrhea, just in case.
Follow the safety guidelines and instructions given by the trek leader and the guides. Do not wander off from the group or the trail. Respect the local culture and environment and do not litter or harm any wildlife.
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The Hampta Pass trek is generally considered a moderate-level trek, suitable for fit beginners, featuring easy valley walks mixed with challenging sections like steep climbs, rocky terrain, snowfields, and river crossings, especially near the 14,100 ft (4,300 m) pass, requiring good physical fitness and stamina for its rapid altitude gain.
To reach Hampta Pass from Manali, you first take a taxi or private vehicle about 16-18 km to Jobra, the trek's base camp, a 1-2 hour drive through scenic valleys. From Jobra, the actual 4-5 day moderate trek begins, leading you through forests, meadows, and streams to the pass itself (around 14,000 ft) and ending in Chatru, from where you return to Manali, often via the Atal Tunnel.
Hampta Pass has snow, especially from late fall (October) through early summer (June), with heavy snow from December to January making it difficult, while June and September offer significant snow patches and icy ridges, making it a popular trek, though monsoon (July-August) brings rain and washes some snow away. You can expect snow-covered trails and potential snow bridges, especially at higher camps like Shea Goru, but the monsoon season brings lush greenery and rain.
Hampta Pass trekking makes for a great combination of adventure, beauty, culture and fun. The best time to trek to Hampta Pass is between mid-June to mid-October. However, there's a good chance you'll see some snow on the high passes in the early days of the season.
